At-large race is as close as you can come to voting for or against Wu
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Eight candidates, including four incumbents, are competing for four citywide seats on the Boston City Council in Tuesday's election.
Why it matters: The election won't include Mayor Michelle Wu, but it's a key opportunity for voters to shape her political support heading into a second term.
The big picture: At-large councilors influence citywide policy — from housing affordability and public safety to how the city handles federal challenges.
The incumbents:
- Ruthzee Louijeune, 39, is a Harvard-trained lawyer and current council president who emphasizes housing and school facilities.
- Julia Mejia, 55, Boston's first Afro-Latina councilor, is seeking a fourth term focused on education equity and accountability.
- Erin Murphy, 55, a former teacher and third-term councilor, champions transparency and drug policy — and is likely to challenge Wu on Mass. and Cass.
- Henry Santana, 30, a Wu ally and former civic organizing director, focuses on youth engagement and housing stability.
The challengers:
- Frank Baker, 58, a six-term former district councilor, is running as a more conservative voice prioritizing homeownership and job training.
- Marvin Mathelier, 39, a Marine veteran and cafe owner, is pushing for affordable housing and education reform.
- Will Onuoha, 42, a City Hall veteran, has held a variety of roles across city departments.
- Alexandra Valdez, 33, Wu's cultural affairs director, backs early education, bilingual programs and small businesses.
The big picture: Housing remains the dominant issue, with candidates offering solutions ranging from rent stabilization to zoning reform and homeownership incentives.
What's next: Early voting ends Friday.
- Polls are open Tuesday from 7am to 8pm.